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Timber Clad Retreat with Natural Water Filtration

Author:
Adonis Algianakoglou
Timber Clad Retreat with Natural Water Filtration

Project in-detail

Timber-clad structures with integrated green roofs utilize natural rainwater filtration, offering sustainable sleeping accommodations that enhance the connection between visitors and the surrounding landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Timber cladding serves as both aesthetic element and passive cooling mechanism.
02
Rainwater is filtered through green roofs to support non-potable uses.
03
The design prioritizes minimal disruption to the steep site terrain.
04
Solar panels provide independent energy for heating and electricity.
05
Unique Portuguese tiles enhance local cultural integration and visual appeal.

The 'Mose's Eye' project presents a thoughtful approach to connecting human living spaces with the natural world. Located on the steep slopes of the Vale de Moses, the design features self-sustaining sleeping pods that aim to enhance the relationship between people and their environment. The concept is rooted in environmental responsibility while offering visitors a comfortable and immersive experience in nature.

Design and Sustainability

The sleeping pods are carefully placed to avoid disrupting the existing landscape. They utilize paths that are already in place, respecting the natural terrain and its ecological balance. Each pod is equipped with solar and photovoltaic panels, which provide energy for lighting and heating. This setup allows the pods to operate independently and emphasizes the commitment to sustainable living.

Water Management

An important part of the design involves rainwater harvesting systems. Rainwater is collected and filtered through the green roofs, which serve practical purposes like irrigation and flushing. This strategy not only meets essential water needs but also helps visitors understand the importance of sustainable water use. It reinforces awareness of natural filtering processes, encouraging a deeper respect for local ecosystems.

Materiality and Aesthetics

Timber forms the cladding of the sleeping pods, combining function with visual appeal. This material offers privacy to occupants and acts as a passive cooling system when temperatures rise. The inclusion of unique Portuguese tiles further enhances the aesthetics of the structures, tying them to the cultural context of the region while maintaining overall coherence in design.

User Experience

The arrangement of these design elements fosters an engaging environment for those staying in the pods. The spaces are designed for comfort while remaining sensitive to ecological considerations. Visitors experience the peace of the Vale de Moses and can reflect on sustainable practices during their stay. The architecture encourages a profound connection with nature, allowing occupants to feel at home within their surroundings.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

MICROHOME

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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